Introduction
The World Health Organisation, WHO, [Internet. August 2023], stated that Bitter Kola, with botanical name, Garcinia kola is found among African countries.
While the dark green variety is found in areas with a higher abundance of sunlight, the light green one marks a lower abundance of sunlight. But basically, the bitter kola tree is native to the lush rainforests of West and Central African countries such as Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon and Gabon. These evergreen trees can grow up to 30 metres tall, although they typically reach heights of 12 to 15 metres. The fruits are rounded berries, sometimes slightly flattened. Within these fruits lie the prized bitter kola seeds, which resemble kidney beans in shape. Although the seeds have a notably bitter taste, there is a subtle late chewing sweetness that makes them unique and memorable.
Nutritional benefits
If you have not been eating Bitter kola, perhaps because of the bitter taste, you have to read through this article to understand what you have been really missing.
Of significance is that Bitter kola is packed full with various essential nutrients.
Several research studies have revealed that bitter kola contains vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, potassium, calcium and phosphorus, all of which help in immune building. It also contains carbohydrates, fat and protein.
Bitter kola boasts a variety of compounds which play a key role in its multi-protective ability. Some of these compounds like Garcinianin, Kolaviron and Gakolanone can only be found in bitter kola. Let us consider some specific health benefits of the fruit.
Protection against malaria
As the malaria parasite becomes resistant to drugs, it’s necessary to look at other avenues. Bitter kola contains Kolaviron, and studies have shown it is effective against malaria.
On studying its effect in mice induced with the malaria parasite, it was discovered that this compound destroys enzymes produced by the malaria parasite while protecting the red blood cell from further damage.
Read also: Nigeria’s bitter kola farming gains steam on high demand
Bitter kola has Antibacterial Properties
Research has shown that bitter kola may contain chemical agents (benzophenones and flavanones) that are useful in fighting against bacteria. Some of the bacteria that bitter kola has proven effective against include Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella sp.
Eating or taking extracts of bitter kola blended with honey has been shown to help combat coughs, bacterial and viral infections.
Contains Antioxidants for Immune Boosting and Brain Health
Antioxidants are compounds that prevent cell damage by neutralizing cellular waste products known as free radicals. Bitter kola contains several antioxidant-containing compounds like flavonoids, anthocyanins and phenolic acids. This protective ability improves your immune health, sharpens brain function and mental health.
Protects your Liver
Research suggests that bitter kola may protect the liver. It is suggested that this is possible through the production of enzymes that detoxify drugs.
Relieves Rheumatism Due to Anti-Inflammatory Effects
The enzyme Cyclooxygenase creates two chemicals – COX-1 and COX-2, and they play a key role in the inflammatory process. Nitric oxide is also present in large amounts during inflammation . Bitter kola contains anti-inflammatory properties that reduce or inhibit these compounds, thereby preventing swelling and body pain especially with regards to fevers and aches.
Africans have been known to chew on bitter kola for the relief of knee pains due to arthritis.
Has Anti-diarrhoea Effects
Tannins found in bitter kola and their secondary metabolites have been
known for their natural treatment of intestinal disorders such as diarrhea and dysentery.
Anticancer and wound healing
Tannins have also been reported to have remarkable potential in cancer prevention. Together with phlobatannins they exhibit wound healing properties.
Aphrodisiac
African folklore acclaims the chewing of bitter kola for its male invigorating aphrodisiac properties. Whether the finding in animal studies can be directly translated into humans is debatable. More clinical research is needed to validate the folkloric pro-sexual effects of bitter kola on human males.
Effect on Cardiovascular Health
A recent systematic review concluded that Kolaviron (KV) is helpful in managing CVD risk factors such as reducing hypertension, cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) in animal models. This potentially makes KV a good medicinal (therapeutic) target for the management of cardiovascular diseases especially in humans.
Antidiabetic Agent
The compound Kolaviron found in bitter kola has been the subject of research for decades. A 2013 study aimed at determining the effect of bitter kola on diabetic rats showed an increase in insulin levels which lowered their sugar levels, hinting at the possibility of bitter kola as an effective antidiabetic.
Who Should Not Eat Bitter Kola?
At the moment, there are no scientific studies that assign any side effects to eating bitter kola.
If you are on medications, consult with your doctor first to know if bitter kola is safe for you to eat.
Even though research is still in its early stage, bitter kola has many potential health benefits that you can benefit from by eating it. But you are advised that you should chew it well to absorb, ingest and digest its immense nutritional benefits.
